Image credit: The Maritime Executive.
Vietnamese officials recently celebrated the handover of the Truong Minh Dream, the largest dry bulk carrier ever built in a Vietnamese shipyard. This 65,000 dwt vessel represents a significant advancement for the country’s shipbuilding and shipping industries.
The 656-foot (approximately 200-meter) ship meets international standards and can operate globally, having received classification from Japan’s ClassNK. Vietnam Shipbuilding Engineering JSC (VISEC) and Bluetech Finland collaborated on the design.
The Truong Minh Dream features a double-bottom hull, a single propeller, five cargo holds, hydraulically operated hatch covers, and four 30-ton cranes. A Japanese-built MAN-designed engine powers the vessel.
Nam Trieu Shipbuilding Company, a subsidiary of the Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (SBIC), built the vessel smoothly, launching it in May and completing sea trials in December. This accomplishment occurred while SBIC undergoes reorganization under state-run bankruptcy. The Vietnamese government plans to submit a proposal in early 2025 to boost domestic shipbuilding capacity, aiming to offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional shipbuilding nations.
Dong Bac Shipbuilding Industry JSC received the Truong Minh Dream on December 26 and will operate the vessel from Hai Phong. The company has also ordered two more vessels of the same class, further demonstrating Vietnam’s commitment to developing its maritime economy.